This was it. A trip months in the making: a cycling journey with a couple of high school friends to explore a bikepacking route legendary for its trails and craft beers: The Green Mountain Growler.

The 5-day trip covered 248 km through the rolling hills of Vermont, including 6,467 meters of climbing and around 70% of unpaved roads with some class 4 roads thrown in for fune.

Bikepacking is similar to bike touring, but a different method of carrying your gear is required. My friend Dave, riding his classic Trek 520, was using a rear pannier system and a front handlebar bag while Chris, riding a Salsa Fargo, opted for a Revelate seat, top tube and handlebar roll on bags. We put our bottled water, food, and other important items right in front of us.

Check out this amazing site to learn more about new methods of bikepacking: Bikepacking.com.